Description
Craving a quick dinner that delivers restaurant-quality flavor? This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the answer. Juicy Cajun-spiced chicken, seared in garlic butter, paired with creamy parmesan-coated linguine—every bite is a mouthwatering blend of smoky, savory, and rich comfort. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner ideas, a new favorite pasta recipe, or an indulgent yet balanced meal, this is one of those easy dinner recipes that hits every mark. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions alike.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
12 ounces linguine pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
¼ cup reserved pasta water
Pinch red pepper flakes optional
Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Season cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 15–30 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until golden. Add chicken back in and toss in the garlic butter. Garnish with parsley.
4. Boil linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter and cook garlic. Pour in heavy cream and simmer. Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Use reserved pasta water to loosen if needed. Toss to coat.
7. Plate linguine with Cajun chicken. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Marinate the chicken in Cajun spices for deeper flavor.
Use fresh parmesan for a smoother, richer sauce.
Stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to bring the sauce together beautifully.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, garlic butter chicken, Cajun pasta, spicy chicken pasta